§ 14-33. Civil infractions; citations and civil fines; injunctive relief.

(a)

Any person found or adjudged to be in violation of this chapter shall be deemed to have committed a civil infraction. Infractions of this chapter are not criminal in nature. Upon such a finding, judgment may be entered against the person for an amount not to exceed $500.00 per count. Any court costs and surcharges shall be in addition to the fines adopted in the uniform fine schedule.

(b)

Any animal control officer or law enforcement official is authorized to issue citations in accordance with section 1-11 of this Code, provided the officer has probable cause to believe that a person has committed an act in violation of this chapter.

(c)

Violation of this chapter may also be enforced by injunction, which suit or action for injunction may be instituted and maintained in the name of the county, or any other legal remedy available to the county.

(d)

Persons in violation of this chapter shall reimburse the county for all costs incurred due to the violation including, but not limited to, veterinary bills, private process server fees, transportation, board and all other necessary expenses. These costs shall not be construed as a civil fine under section 14-32 and may exceed the limit as provided in subsection (a) of this section.

(e)

A citation may be contested in county court as provided in section 1-11 of this Code.

(f)

The commission of a charged infraction of this chapter must be proven by a preponderance of the evidence.

(Ord. No. 16-29, § 3, 10-11-16)